Open AccessDiagnosis‐related group regulations. Implications for the practicing rheumatologist
Author(s) -
Weinberger Morris,
Potts Marilyn K.,
Brandt Kenneth D.
Publication year - 1985
Publication title -
arthritis & rheumatism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1529-0131
pISSN - 0004-3591
DOI - 10.1002/art.1780280216
Subject(s) - medicine , rheumatoid arthritis , reimbursement , physical therapy , prospective cohort study , lupus erythematosus , arthritis , immunology , health care , antibody , economics , economic growth
Data from our university hospital on the 2 most common rheumatologic diseases that require hospitalization indicate that total charges for patients admitted with rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus break down as follows: room, board, and nursing, 55%; tests/procedures, 30%; drugs, 5%; physical and occupational therapy, 5%; and miscellaneous, 5%. Thus, shortening the length of stay would be the most effective mechanism to reduce total charges. We also found marked heterogeneity in the single diagnosis‐related group containing rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus inpatients under 70 years old who had no comorbid conditions. Planners should be sensitive to this as prospective reimbursement is extended beyond Medicare patients.